Tulsa Housing Authority (THA) has completed the acquisition of Sunset Plaza Apartments, a severely distressed 104- unit apartment community adjacent to THA’s office building.
The property, previously owned by an out-of-state landlord, was deemed a Chronic Public Nuisance by the City of Tulsa in January of this year. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) removed the property’s Housing Assistance Payment contract in March of this year after the property failed multiple Housing Quality Standards inspections. At that time, HUD approached THA and asked the agency to pursue acquisition and provide Tenant Protection Vouchers for existing Sunset Plaza residents.
HUD hired a third-party contractor to oversee relocation of residents, including financial support to cover moving costs and assistance in securing a new place to live.
“The team at HUD recognized what a blight and a danger this property has been, and when they approached us to assist we wanted to do what we can to help resolve the issue,” said Aaron Darden, THA’s President & CEO.
Tulsa Fire Department (TFD) has scheduled ongoing training exercises at Sunset Plaza to take place for several weeks. “We’re happy that TFD is able to turn this property from a safety hazard to a training ground for firefighters who work to keep Tulsans safe every day,” said Darden.
After TFD has completed its training exercises at Sunset Plaza THA will begin the planning process to determine the highest and best use for the property.
To learn more about THA’s development pipeline visit https://www.tulsahousing.org/development/.
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About Housing Authority of the City of Tulsa
The Housing Authority of the City of Tulsa (THA) is creating a better Tulsa by transforming lives and communities. THA has been serving the community since 1967, providing affordable housing solutions for Tulsa’s most vulnerable populations. THA owns and manages 13 communities, offers four Section 8 Project-Based Rental Assistance communities and manages the Housing Choice Voucher program. THA serves more than 20,000 Tulsans, providing affordable housing options in tandem with connection to supportive services to help all Tulsans thrive.